Kukri | Define Kukri at Dictionary.com kukri noun 1. a large knife having a heavy curved blade that is sharp on the concave side, used by the Napalese Gurkhas for hunting and combat. Origin of kukri Khukuri House - Gurkha Knives Official Khukuri/Kukri supplier to Gurkhas The Honor of the Khukuri KHUKURI \ KUKRI KNIFE: A mid-length curved knife comprising a distinctive ï¿½Choï¿½ that is the national knife and icon of Nepal, basic and traditional utility knife of Nepalese, a formidable and effective weapon of the Gurkhas and an exquisite piece of local craftsmanship that symbolizes pride and valor which also represents the country and itï¿½s culture. Believed to have existed 2500 years ago; ï¿½Kopiï¿½ is the probable source of the Khukuri that was used by Greek in the 4 th BC. However, khukuri came into limelight only in and particularly after the Nepal War in 1814-15 after the formation of British Gurkha Army.

Basically carried in a leather case, mostly having walnut wooden grip and traditionally having two small knives, it is one of the most famous and feared knives of the world. Some of the famous knives of the world such as the Bowie Knife, the Stiletto, the Scimitar, the Roman Sword, the Machete and so on have all, at one time or the other, played great historical roles as formidable weapons with men have demonstrated raw power and courage during times of battle. The kukri, however, outdoes them all! The great romance and the extraordinary accounts of bravery that this knife evokes are legendary and historic. There are two names for this knife that are now universally accepted, ï¿½Khukuriï¿½ or ï¿½Kukriï¿½. After going through series of names since someone first tried to speak, pronounce or write when it was first encountered or discovered in the early 1600ï¿½s ï¿½Khukuriï¿½ became the strict Nepalese version that is very common, famous and household name in Nepalese literature.

However Khukuri is more known as ï¿½Kukriï¿½ in the western world and beyond which we see is an anglicized version of the British when they first discovered the knife. With khukuriï¿½s origin going back to ancient times, the khukuri is not only the national knife of Nepal but is also symbolic of the Gurkha soldier, a prized possession with which he has indelibly carved an identity for himself. The khukuri has been the weapon of choice for the Gorkhas of Nepal and the famous Gorkhali Sainik of King Prithivi Narayan Shah since 16th century and used for almost everything from a utility tool to an effective fighting knife in battle to a unique piece of decoration that has marked its amazing reputation. The successful war campaigns and swift victory of the Gorkhali Sainik against its enemies must be credited to some extent to this unusual and practical weapon. It is also believed that the universal custom of Gurkha Army carrying the khukuri began from Gorkhali Sanik and that was later made an important part of military issue under the British ownership.

This custom still exists although the size and type of khukuri have significantly changed and improvised. The awesome cutting edge of the khukuris was first experienced by the British in India who had to face it in the well-documented battles since 1814 while combating the Gorkhali Sainik in western Nepal. Thus was born the legend and the romance. In the Gurkha soldier's grip, this seemingly small piece of curved steel called Khukuri or Kukri sometimes, becomes an incredibly menacing weapon with which he has demonstrated rare feats of bravery while facing the enemy in many a battlefield. The khukuri is a medium-length curved knife each Gurkha soldier carries with him in uniform and in battle.In his grip, it is a formidable razor-sharp weapon and a cutting tool. In fact, it is an extension of his arm. When his rifle misfires, or when his bullets have run out, a Gurkha unsheathes his khukuri and makes his final "do-or-die" run on the enemy in a fury to finish the business. This scene created the romance and the legends.

What he really did, and still does with his khukuri, is a super-clean slaughter: The enemy tumbles down in two clean pieces- and in surprise! - because his is the kindest, quietest death because it is the quickest. At present, khukuri is recognized as the national knife of Nepal. Known more than being just a revered and effective weapon, the khukuri is also the peaceful all-purpose knife of the hill people of Nepal. It is a versatile working tool and therefore an indispensable possession of almost every household, especially of those belonging to the Gurung, Magar, Rai, Limbu and Tamang ethnic groups of central and eastern Nepal. A Nepali boy is likely to have his own khukuri at the tender age of five or so and necessarily becomes skilful in its usage long before his man hood. It is also likely that the boy will have painful encounters with his khukuri but his belief and bonding in the process with the khukuri will teach him how to use and respect it.

Moreover, apart from the fact that the khukuri is an exceptionally effective tool that denotes a strong character, it also symbolizes bravery and valor and is a Nepalese cultural icon, it also represents an exquisite piece of Nepalese craftsmanship and is indeed a unique memento for you to take back home from Nepal. The construction of khukuri is very basic and simple yet it has style and class of its own. In Nepal people still use very traditional and primitive method and conventional tools to make it. In early Nepal most villages would have a metal smith or famously known as ï¿½Kamisï¿½ who forged khukuirs to their best ability. In todayï¿½s context there is a good deal of mass production done in a organized and systematic way where Kamis from different places come together under the same shade and work for a contractor who is responsible for all management, business and financial activities. The khukuri blades have always varied much in quality. Inferior and high quality steels both have been equally used thus needs an expert eye and skill to distinguish one from the other. Old heavy vehicles spring (suspension) steel has always been the source of a good quality khukuri blade.

Khukuris in the earlier days were much longer than the modern ones and significantly varied in shape and size than its contemporary siblings; and also had steel fixtures. Army khukuris issued to the Gurkhas during the World War era had stampings like name of manufacturer, inspection date, issue date and sometimes name of the military unit. Khukuris were than longer and more curved than the current issues. Along with traditional and village khukuris even the army knives have intensely changed over the years to adapting to the modern times and its developments. Khukuri grips are normally made from local walnut wood called ï¿½Sattisaalï¿½ in Nepalese, domestic water buffalo horn and some very fancy from brass, aluminum; and even ivory and rhino horn are used for some very special ones. Basically two types of tang are applied; one is the rat-tail tang that goes all the way through the handle narrowing its surface area as it finishes towards the end of the handle and its end/tail is penned over and secured.

The other is the full flat tang that also goes through the handle but the tang can be seen on the sides of the handle and steel rivets are fixed to secure the handle to the tang and a pommel plate or butt cap is also fitted at the end to enhance the total fixture; this type is called as ï¿½Panawal Handleï¿½. Most of ancient khukuris used to have wooden handle with rat tail tang however, surprisingly, the tail did not come all the way through the handle. The handles were curved unlike the modern ones and had steel or iron fixtures in most cases. The exact origin or who initiated the ï¿½Panawalï¿½ handle is not known but probably started in early 1900ï¿½s when Kamis were influenced by British Knives and they undertook the new better version. It is also likely that the handle demanded better treatment as rat tail handle were not strong enough to hold the long blades when put hard on job. Today different materials are used in the khukuri and are improvised to better suit the demands of today and for better results nonetheless traditional styles have been retained except for a few exceptional and unique ones.

The khukuri is carried in scabbard, “Dap” in Nepalese, where normally 2 pieces of wooden frames are covered with water buffalo hide or other domesticated animal parts and may or may not have brass or steel protective chape depending on the type of khukuri. Khukuri scabbard like the blade and handle has come a long way with many changes and modifications along the way to keep up with the ever changing time and need. Scabbards from early days did not have belt frog and people used untreated untainted raw leather hide just for the mere shake of carrying the Khukuri blade. Khukuri were thus stuck in the ownerï¿½s sash or ï¿½Patukaï¿½ as frogs or any sorts of holder were missing. After the formation of British Gurkhas frogs were introduced by British to carry khukuri from waist belt and later steel and brass fixtures were used to look good and also to protect the naked tip of the scabbard. Some khukuris have decorative scabbard with beautifully well done wooden, horn, silver, brass work and sometimes ivory.

Khukuri that are especially intended for display purpose, are given extra time and effort to its scabbard by using horns, wood and other expensive decorative materials crafting beautiful designs and carvings with traditional and religious symbols in the scabbard. It is a customary in Gurkha Army to present a retiring officer with a Kothimoda khukuri (silver case) to honor his outstanding long and loyal service to the regiment and the country. Khukuri scabbard also has two pockets at the back that carry blunt steel called ï¿½Chakmakï¿½ for sharpening the khukuri blade and also for striking sparks from flint and a little sharp knife called ï¿½Kardaï¿½ used as a small utility knife. Very old scabbards along with Karda and Chakmak also had an extra leather pouch (Khalti) attached to it used for carrying small survival kits or most of the time small piece of flint to create a spark with the Chakmak. However, army khukuris in world war days and most khukuris in 19th and early 20th centuries did have neither the Karda Chakmak nor the extra pouch.

It is only after the mid 20th century Karda and Chakmak were again placed back in the Gurkha knives to maintain the khukuri tradition. Most khukuri at present have Karda Chakmak however Khalti is ignored. Shapes and sizes of khukuris from ancient to modern ones have varied intensely from place to place, person to person, maker to maker and so forth. Khukuri made in the Eastern village Bhojpur, very famous for khukuris, make fat thick blade where as Sirupate, the most famous khukuri in Nepal is very slim and thin. Similarly khukuris from Salyan are long and slender with deeper belly and Dhankuta, a village in the east make simple standard army type blade but gives emphasis on the scabbard by making it decorative and ornate. Khukuris made during the 18th and 19th century was much longer and more curved than its modern counterparts. The shapes were often very broad belly and heavy or very curved slender and thus very light.

Only the standard army issue were and are made of the same dimension and measurement in order to bring uniformity and tidiness to the unit; where as local khukuris still continue to vary from one another making it impossible to characterize or distinguish a particular khukuri from the rest. Moreover, since all khukuris are totally handmade even the same type and version tend to differ a bit leaving the impression of the habitual of the maker and his individuality. Khukuri, National Knife Of Nepal, Gurkha Knife. The excellent cutting power of Khukuri (Gurkha knife) was first experienced by the British in India who had to face it in the battles since 1814 while combating the Gorkha army in western Nepal. From that very moment Khukuri (Gurkha knife) established its fame and became legend. So the Khukuri (Gurkha knife) is also known by the name of Gurkha knife. In the Gurkha soldier's grip, this small piece of curved steel “Gurkha Knife” becomes an incredibly menacing weapon with which he has demonstrated rare feats of bravery while facing the enemy in many a battlefield.

This excellent piece of “Gurkha Knife” also Nepalese knife has fought many battles in the Nepalese History and has shown very good reputation. Because of that the Khukuri (Gurkha knife) is Nepal’s national knife. The blade of Gurkha soldiers “Gurkha Knife” has its own fame and popularity. All the Nepalese people are so proud of this “Gurkha Knife” that this gurkha knife, Khukuri (Gurkha knife) is liked by all the Nepalese people. Khukuri (Gurkha knife) is a medium-length curved knife with comfortable weight each Gurkha soldier carries with him in his uniform and in battle. In his grip, this “Gurkha Knife” or the Khukuri (Gurkha knife) it is a formidable razor-sharp weapon and a cutting tool. When his rifle misfires, or when his bullets have run out, a Gurkha unsheathes his Khukuri (Gurkha knife) and makes his final "do-or-die" run on the enemy in a fury to finish the job. This scene created the romance and the legends.

What this legendary knife the Khukuri (Gurkha knife) really did, and still does, is a super-clean slaughter: The enemy tumbles down in two clean pieces- and in surprise! because his is the kindest, quietest death because it is the quickest. Khukuri (Gurkha knife) is the national knife of Nepal, originating in ancient times. More than being just a revered and effective weapon, however, the Khukuri (Gurkha knife) is also the peaceful all-purpose knife of the hill people of Nepal. It is a versatile working tool and therefore an indispensable possession of almost every household, especially of those belonging to the Gurung, Magar, Rai and Limbu ethnic groups of central and eastern Nepal. Moreover, apart from the fact that the Khukuri symbolizes bravery and valour and is a Nepalese cultural icon, it also represents an exquisite piece of Nepalese craftsmanship and is indeed a unique memento for you to take back home from Nepal. The blade of the Khukuri (Gurkha knife) is made up of steel and the handle is made up of wood, buffalo horn and metals.

The Khukuri (Gurkha knife) is carried in a scabbard (Dab in Nepali) which is a wooden frame covered with leather and has a protective metal cap over the tip. Some scabbard is wrapped with cotton instead of leather. Some scabbards are even decorated with silver. The scabbard has two pockets to hold the two tiny knives tucked behind it. Karda: A small knife, its main purpose is to cut small things and also work as a skinning knife. Chakmak: A sharpener, the main purpose of this Chakmak is to sharp the Khukuri (Gurkha knife) and maintain the sharp edge of the Khukuri (Gurkha knife). It can be used as a flint maker also. The Notch (Kaura) in the blade near the hilt of most Khukuri (Gurkha knife) serve as a conduit for the blood on the blade to drip out thus prevents it from soiling the hilt, as well as a device for catching and neutralizing an enemy blade. It also represents the Hindu fertility symbol.

The Khukuri (Gurkha knife) is not only the national knife but also has great religious importance and is worshipped by the Nepalese during the grand Hindu festival Dashain. The oldest khukuri (Gurkha knife) known to exist is the one on display at the National Museum in Kathmandu which belonged to Drabya Shah, the King of Gorkha in 1627. It is, however, certain that the origins of the knife stretch further back. The machira, the cavalry sword of the ancient Macedonians which was carried by Alexander's soldiers when it invaded north-west India in the 4th century BC, closely resembled the khukuri (Gurkha knife). The origin of the khukuri (Gurkha knife) has also been linked to the development of a form of blade similar to the classic Greek sword or kopis. Others suggest that it originated from a form of knife first used by the Mallas who came to power in Nepal in the 13th century. Still others find similarities in the construction of some Khukuris (Gurkha knife) to techniques of sword making found in Japan.

The weapon may, however have been developed in isolation Nepalese peasants. Whatever be the roots, Nepal, the Gurkhas and the Khukuri (Gurkha knife) are inseparable in reputation. The fact that khukuri (Gurkha knife) is the national knife of Nepal. Khukuri Knife to expose the art and tradition of khukuri to the out side world. The making of a single khukuri (Gurkha knife) four men fully occupied for an entire day, sometimes even more. The raw materials for making khukuri (kukuri) -steel, brass, Rose wood, buffalo hide and horn - are first carefully selected. Only the best are utilized. Then only the actual process of making the Khukuri starts. Beating and shaping the steel to exact specifications -both measurements and weight -tempering, polishing and sharpening it, shaping the sheath and encasing it with leather, carving the handle and finally putting everything together are both time and energy consuming. Everything is done by hand and the only machine used is a lathe for shining the khukuri. What makes khukuriKnife khukuri (Gurkha knife) so special !!

The same thing which make the knife so revered; four men working a full day to craft each blade; high grade carbon steel; authenticity rather than decoration. These are the real things, not fancified souvenirs peddled by hawkers on the streets. They are honest, powerful and graceful blades, which have the pride of legendary Gurkhas for nearly 200 years and the pride of their owners since times immemorial . Considering the amount of time and effort invested in the making of each khukuri (kukuri), the prices of the khukuries are surprisingly reasonable - They are, therefore, absolute bargains. The Khukuri is carried in a wooden (often leather covered) stealth. There are two tiny knives tucked behind it. Karda: A small knife tucked behind the scabbard, its main purpose is to cut small things and also work as a skinning knife. Chakmak: A sharpener tucked behind the scabbard. It can be used as a flint maker also. Notch: the notch near the handle on the blade is a Hindu fertility symbol. It is also the footprint of a cow (cow is a secret animal in Hindu religion).

So the notch forbids slaughtering sacred animal with it. The Gurkhas also kept promises with it that they will never use this weapon on women and children. Nevertheless, the knife being the lethal weapon, the notch on it is for the blood to dip and not to soil the holder's hand, so the user can maintain his grip for further demonstration. We have wide varsities and collection of khukuri (Gurkha knife) ranges start from small khukuri (Gurkha knife)replica called the "Paper knife" to Buff head Sacrificial ones. All khukuris are made of Hi-Carbon Steel using fine raw materials and are crafted by skilled craftsmen known as the "Bishwakarmas(born khukuri makers)". Kukri history:: Khukuri history:: Khukri history:: Origin of Gurkha knife/kukri Kukri History "The Kukri is the national as well as the religious weapon of the Gurkhas.

It is incumbent on a Gurkha to carry it while awake and to place it under pillow when retiring." - Maharaja Padma Shamser Jangbahadur Rana (Prime Minister and Supreme Commander) Some of the famous knives of the world such as the Bowie Knife, the Stiletto, the Scimitar, the Roman Sword, the Machete and so on have all, at one time or the other , played great historical roles as formidable weapons with men have demonstrated raw power and courage during times of battle. The Kukri, however, outdoes them all! The great romance and the extraordinary accounts of bravery that this knife evokes are legendary. With its origins going back to ancient times, the Kukri is not only the national knife of Nepal but is also symbolic of the Gurkha soldier, a prized possession with which he has indelibly carved an identity for himself. The awesome cutting edge of the Kukri was first experienced by the British in India who had to face it in the well-documented battles since 1814 while combating the Gorkha army in the western Nepal. Thus was born the legend and the romance.

In the Gurkha soldier’s grip, this seemingly small piece of curved steel becomes an incredibly menacing weapon with which he has demonstrated rare feats of bravery while facing the enemy in many battlefields. Kukri is a medium-length curved knife each Gurkha soldier carries with him in uniform and in battle. In his grip, it is a formidable razor sharp weapon and a cutting tool. In fact, it is an extension of his arm. When his rifle misfires, or when his bullets have run out, a Gurkha unsheathes his Kukri makes his final “do or die “run on the enemy in a fury to finish the business. This scene created the romance and the legends. What it really did, and still does, is a super-clean slaughter; the enemy tumbles down in two clean pieces and in surprise!–because his is the kindest, quickest death because it is the quickest. None of us knows the fact that how the Kukri was exactly originated and is still a mystery where and who created it. The originated place and date have also been lost in the mists of time. Here are some facts, which prove that it is one of the oldest knives in the world.

The blade shape might have descended from the classic Greek sword of Kopis, which is about 2500 years old. The Machira, the calavry sword of the ancient Macedonians which was carried by the troops of Alexander the Great when invaded northwest India in the 4th Century BC and was copied by local black smiths or Kamis. Some knife exports have found similarities in the construction of some Kukri to the crafting method of old Japanese sword. Thus making the Kukri the oldest knife in the history of world. Some say it was originated from a form of knife first used by the Mallas who came to power in Nepal in the 13th Century. There are some Kukris displayed on the walls of National Museum at Chhauni in Kathmandu which are 500 years old or even more among them one belonged to Drabya Shah, the founder king of the kingdom of Gorkha, in 1627 AD. But the some facts shows that the Kukri’s history is centuries old then this. But other suggest that the Kukri was first used by Kiratis who came to power in Nepal before Lichchhavi age, about 7th Century.

What ever may be the facts of how and when it was made, Kukri is the national knife of Nepal, originated in ancient times. More than being just a reverted and effective weapon, however, the kukri is also the peaceful all- purpose knife of the hill people of Nepal. It is a versatile working tool and therefore an indispensable possession of almost every household, especially of those belonging to the Gurungs, Magars, Rai and limbu ethnic groups of central and eastern Nepal. Moreover, apart from the fact that the kukri symbolizes bravery and valor and is a Nepalese cultural icon, it also represents an exquisite piece of Nepalese craftsmanship and is indeed a unique memento for you to buy from Nepal. Most Kukri feature two little knives attached at the back of the sheath held either in a built-in pocket or a leather purse is the complete set. The small sharp knife is a Karda, it serves as a small cutting knife. The other knife is called a Chakmak. It is blunt on both sides and it works like a knife sharpener when one does not have a sharpening stone rubbing both sides of a kukri. This Chakmak when stroked against a lime stone created sparks to start fire also.

One unique thing that makes one swallow his fear is the notch just before the start of the blade. What it really did and still does is to interrupt the blood flow to the handle and to let it drip to the soil so one can maintain grip during battle. It is also believed to be a promise by a Gurkha soldier not to kill women and child. The notch also appears to be like a cow foot which is holy and worshiped in Nepal. The Gurkha and his Kukri are incomplete without one another. Together they have earned their fame, which can never to be forgotten. Nepal, the Gurkhas and the Kukri are inseparable. Stay Connected: Gurkha knife - definition of Gurkha knife by The Free Dictionary Gurkha knife - definition of Gurkha knife by The Free Dictionary (ko͝ok′rē) n. pl. kuk·ris A large knife with a somewhat sickle-shaped blade that is broader near its point than near the hilt, used especially by Gurkha soldiers as a weapon and cutting tool.

[Nepali khukurī, probably via Hindi khukhrī.] kukri (ˈkʊkrɪ) n, pl -ris (Arms & Armour (excluding Firearms)) a knife with a curved blade that broadens towards the point, esp as used by Gurkhas [from Hindi] GurkhaKnives.com - Khukuri Palace - The Real Blade Of Gurkhas - We Believe in Authenticity NEW OFFICAL KHUKURI SUPPLIER TO BRITISH GURKHA ARMY Gurkhaknives.com - Khukuri Palace Before answering the actual question, let us mention some of the great and famous knives of the world: Bowie Knife, Stiletto, Scimitar, Roman Sword, Samurai, Machete and so on. All have played great historical roles because of their cutting edge. Khukuri is the most famous of them all. It is partly so because of the romance and myths behind them utterly unbelievable. Actually, it is because of the decisive slashing edge of the Khukuri which became well-known to those who had to face it in the well-documented battlefields since 1814 when the British in India first experienced its effectiveness when they faced the Gurkhas in Western Nepal.

Thus was born the legends and romance. The history is something else. Khukuri is the national knife of Nepal, originating in ancient times. It is all-purpose knife of the hill peoples of Nepal, especially the Magars and Gurungs in the west, and the Rais and Limbus in the east. These peoples are called the Gurkhas who form the formidable Brigades of Gurkhas both in the British and Indian Armies, not talking of the Royal Nepal Army itself. It is a medium-length curved knife each Gurkha soldier carries with him in uniform and in battle. In his grip, it is a formidable razor-shape weapon and a cutting tool. In fact, it is an extension of his arm. When his rifle misfires, or when his bullets have run out, a Gurkha unsheathes his Khukuri and makes his final “do-ir-die” run on the enemy in a fury to finish the business. This scene created the romance and the legends. What it really did, and still does, is a superclean slaughter. The enemy tumbles down in two clean pieces and is surprise! Because of the kindest, quietest death.

The Khukuri is carried in a wooden (often leather covered) stealth. There are two tiny knives tucked behind it. Karda: A small knife tucked behind the scabbard, its main purpose is to cut small things and also work as a skinning knife. Chakmak: A sharpener tucked behind the scabbard. It can be used as a flint maker also. Notch: The notch near the handle on the edge of the blade is a Hindu fertility symbol. It is also the footprint of a cow (cow is a sacred anmimal in Hindu religion) So the notch forbid slaughtering secret animal with it. The Gurkhas also kept promises with it that thy will never use this weapon on women and children. Nevertheless, the knife being the lethal weapon, the notch on it is for the blood to drip and not to soil the holder's hand, so the user can maintain his grip for futher demonstration. THE KHUKURI OR KUKRI :: The Gurkha's National Weapon The Gurkha is worthy of notice, if only for the remarkable weapon which they use in preference to any other. It is called Khukuri or Kukri and is of a very peculiar shape.

As may be seen by reference to the drawings both the blade and hilt are curved. The blade is very thick at the back, measuring a little more than a quarter of an inch in thickness. From the back it is thinned of gradually to the edge, which has a curve of its own, quite different to that of the back, so that the blade is widest as well as thickest in the middle, and tapers at one end towards the hilt, and at the other towards the point. The steel of which the blade is formed is of admirable temper, as is shown by the fact that specimens which had not been cleaned for thirty years, but have been hung upon walls among other weapons, are scarcely touched with rust, and for the greater part of their surface are burnished like mirrors. The handle is made after a very remarkable fashion, and the portion which forms the hilt is so small that it shows the size of the hand for which it was intended. This smallness of hilt is common to all Indian swords, which cannot be grasped by an ordinary English soldier.

Indeed the Gurkhas are so small, that their hands, like those of all Indian races, are very delicate, about the same size as those of an English boy of seven. The point of the Khukuri or Kukri is as sharp as a needle, so that the weapon answers equally for cutting or stabbing. In consequence of the great thickness of the metal, the blade is exceedingly heavy. It may be imagined that a blow from such a weapon as this must be a very terrible one. The very weight of the blade would drive it half through a man's arm if it were only allowed to fall from a little height. But the Gurkhas have a mode of striking which resembles the 'drawing' cut of the broadsword, and which urges the sharp edge through flesh and bone alike. Before passing to the mode in which the kukri is used, it should be mentioned that it is not employed for domestic purposes, being too highly valued by the owner. For such purposes two smaller knives are used, of very similar form, but apparently of inferior metal. These are kept in little case with the knives attached to a Highlander's drik. In the hands of an experienced wielder this knife is about as formidable a weapon as can be conceived.

Like all really good weapons, its efficiency depends much more upon the skill than the strength of the wielder, and thus it uppends that the little Gurkha, a mere boy in point of stature, will cut to pieces a gigantic adversary who does not understand his mode of onset. The Gurkha generally strikes upwards with the kukri, possibly in order to avoid wounding himself should his blow fail, and possibly because an upward cut is just the one that can be least guarded against. When we were engaged in the many wars in India the Gurkha proved themselves out most formidable enemies, as since they have proved themselves most invaluable allies. Brave as lions, active as monkeys and fierce as tigers, the little wiry little men came leaping over the ground to the attack, moving so quickly, and keeping so far apart from each other, the musketry was no use against them. When they came near the soldiers, they suddenly crouched to the ground, dived under the beonets, struck upwards at the men with their kukris, ripping them off with a single blow, and then, after having done all the mischief in their power, darting off as rapidly as they had come.

Until our men learned by their little opponents, who got under their weapons, cutting or slashing with knives as sharp as razors, and often escaping unhurt from the midst of bayonets. They would also dash under the bellies of the officers' horses, rip them open with one blow of the kukri, and aim another at the leg of the officer as he and his horse fell together. Find all information on the legendary and famous khukri knife » The honor of the Kukri KHUKURI \ KUKRI KNIFE: A mid-length curved knife comprising a distinctive �Cho� that is the national knife and icon of Nepal, basic and traditional utility knife of Nepalese, a formidable and effective weapon of the Gurkhas and an exquisite piece of local craftsmanship that symbolizes pride and valor which also represents the country and it�s culture. Believed to have existed 2500 years ago; �Kopi� is the probable source of the Khukuri that was used by Greek in the 4 th BC. However, khukuri came into limelight only in and particularly after the Nepal War in 1814-15 after the formation of British Gurkha Army.

Basically carried in a leather case, mostly having walnut wooden grip and traditionally having two small knives, it is one of the most famous and feared knives of the world. Khukuri Notch: The most appealing and distinctive part of the khukuri is the notch or �Cho� cut into the blade directly in front of the grip and the bolster. The Cho or �Kaudi� in Nepalese that separates the khukuri from the world of knives arouses much interest because of its unique shape and utility objectives. Practically the notch works as a blood dipper to prevent the blood or fluid from going towards the handle so that firm grip can be maintained throughout the execution and also as a stopper to stop Chakmak (sharpener) from reaching the handle area when sharpening while running down the edge of the khukuri blade. Similarly the notch also has religious significance as it signifies the Hindu fertility symbol (OM) and represents the sacred cow�s hoof (as cow is worshipped in Nepal).It is also believed to have been developed as a device for catching and neutralizing an enemy blade in close combat.

However, myths like notch being a target device to capture an enemy�s sight within it and hurl the blade like a boomera ng to snick of his head is not true as khukuri is never thrown. As well the notch being a can opener or rest curvature for index finger of the using hand while slicing are all fictitious. The first khukuri blade ever known to the modern mankind had the Cho and some drawings found in an Indian temple around 600AD also depict it in the blade. Almost all khukuri that originated in the past had the legendary notch and even the modern ones continue to carry this distinctive tradition. Myths, Legends, Religion & Belief: The name and fame of khukuri is so exceptional and not only because it is one very efficient and excellent knife but the myths it carries within and its religious values have literally made this knife a true legend. The myths that has spread over the centuries particularly into the western world has made khukuri more a subject of interest and knowledge and a must for the knives collectors.

A khukuri once drawn in whatever circumstances must taste blood before it is re-sheathed; the symbolic �Kaudi� notch as a sighting device to capture enemy�s view within it and hurl the khukuri towards him, snick off his head and snatch the khukuri out of the air as it returns; and the notch being used to disarm the enemy by catching his sword in it and snatching from his hand by twisting the khukuri are all myths (however first one may be true in ancient times) but has rather created a fearful, respectful and distinctive image to this amazing knife in minds and thoughts of millions.

The khukuri�s ability and usage to behead the enemy�s head in a single stroke, being awfully used as a killing machine in wars and combats, Gurkhas charging with it in fury to execute their �Do or Die� action, being excessively used as a survival and utility tool by Gurkhas and locals (one Gurkha soldier survived in the Malayan jungle alone for seven years by his khukuri), Nepalese hill men at all times using it as a domestic knife at home and away, and the khukuri being used to slaughter wild animals against their attacks are all legendary tales that have made the khukuri a one of a kind knife mankind has ever held. The khukuri is also much more than just a knife or a weapon in Nepal because of its religious values it carries and beliefs it has created in the Nepalese culture. The shape of the blade itself represents the trinity symbols of �Brahma�, �Vishnu� and �Shiva�, the three most famous and influential Hindu Gods in Nepal and beyond. The notch in the blade signifies the powerful symbol of fertility (OM) of Hinduism and also signifies the cow�s hoof that is believed holy in Nepal.

Khukuri is also worshipped in different occasions and festivals and perceived as a dynamic icon of Hindu mythology. Mainly in �Dashain�, Nepalese main festival, the khukuri is worshipped ritually and put to action of beheading domestic animals as offerings to the �Durga� goddess (Goddess who slaughtered devils and evils).Similarly in �Biswakarma Puja� that mainly falls in autumn, devotees worship khukuri along with other iron and steel tools to pay their respect and loyalty. Besides these khukuri is worshipped prior to any sacrificia l ceremonies as there is a belief in Nepalese society that �a khukuri must taste blood to become a khukuri�. This sacrificial tradition also follows in the Gurkha Army where each year animals are sacrificed to foresee good fortune and blessings to the regiments and its soldiers. The faith and belief that the khukri has produced are remarkable and interesting. A khukuri when kept at home would bring fortune, prosperity and kill evil spirits is a belief that continues to survive till today that has been brought down since generations.

The khukuri is believed to have spiritual power to scare off demons, evils and nightmares and thus kept under the pillow of a man or especially child who suffers from sleeping disorder. Similarly in Mongolian ethnic groups like Rai, Limbu, Gurung, Magar and Tamang etc a khukuri is also cremated along with the dead man in a belief that the khukuri would defeat the satan so that the departed soul could go to heaven and rest in peace. There is also a belief and saying that �A man with a khukuri� represents a man of honor, dignity, courage and loyalty who would kill and get killed for the rightful cause. There is also a saying by Padma Shamsher Jung Bahadur Rana, former Prime Minister of Nepal that �� the khukuri is the national as well as the religio us weapon of the Gurkha to carry it while awake and to place it under the pillow when retired. As a religious weapon it is worshipped during the Dashain and at other times whenever any sacrifice is to be made.� Besides these, the khukuri is the symbol of wealth, status and prestige in Nepal.

It is also widely used as the national monogram and mark of level of ranking in security forces. The oldest kukri known to exist is the one on display at the National Museum in Kathmandu which belonged to Drabya Shah, the King of Gorkha in 1627 AD. It is, however, certain that the origins of the knife stretch further back, way back to 2500 years…. Gurkha Kukri - Brigade of Gurkha Cap Badge - Gifts and Souvenir Gurkha Item - Nepalese Khukuri Brigade of Gurkha Cap Badge /uploads/3-s(2).jpg Mouseover the photo for High-resolution photo Product Code: EKH-EGGI-39 Ship To: Product Description The Brigade of Gurkhas is the collective term for units of the current British Army that are composed of Nepalese soldiers. The brigade, which is 3,640 strong, draws its heritage from Gurkha units that originally served in the British Indian Army prior to Indian independence, and prior to that of the East India Company. The brigade includes infantry, engineer, signal, logistic and training and support units.

They are famous for their ever-present kukris, a distinctive heavy knife with a curved blade, and for their reputation of being fierce fighters and brave soldiers. They take their name from the hill town of Gorkha from which the Nepalese kingdom had expanded. The ranks have always been dominated by four ethnic groups: the Gurungs and Magars from central Nepal; and the Rais and Limbus from the east, who live in hill villages of hill farmers. Type : Handmade. Official Gurkha Army Kukri| Authentic Khukuri House Nepal| Nepal Army Knife Wholesaler Welcome to Gurkhas Kukri Introduction The khukuri is a Nepalese knife with an inwardly curved blade, similar to a machete, used as both a tool and as a weapon in Nepal and some neighbouring countries of South Asia. Traditionally it was, and in many cases still is, the basic utility knife of the Nepalese people.

It is a characteristic weapon of the Nepalese Army, the Royal Gurkha Rifles, Assam Rifles, Assam Regiment of Indian Gurkha Army, and of all Gurkha regiments throughout the world, so much so that some English-speakers refer to the weapon as a "Gurkha blade" or "Gurkha knife". The khukuri often appears in Nepalese heraldry and is used in many traditional rituals such as wedding ceremonies. The kukri is designed mainly for chopping but it can also be used to stab. The shape varies a great deal from being quite straight to highly curved with angled or smooth spines. There are substantial variations in dimensions and blade thickness, depending on intended tasks, and also by region of origin and producing kami. As a general guide the spines vary from 5-10mm by the handle, and can taper to 2mm by the point, and blade lengths can vary from 26–38 cm for general use.

The kukri knife is designed for general purpose is commonly 16 to 18 inches (around 40–45 cm) in overall length and weighs one to two pounds (around 450-900 grams). Bigger examples are impractical for everyday use and are rarely found except in collections or as ceremonial weapons. Smaller ones are of more limited utility, but very easy to carry.

Question: What is the name of the knife with a curved blade that is associated with the Gurkhas?
Answer: KUKRI